'Netflix effect' attributed for drop in piracy

Australians are pirating less content as streaming services become ubiquitous following the local launch of Netflix, Stan and Presto.

Consumer advocacy group Choice surveyed more than 1000 people and found Australians are prepared to pay for content if it is readily available.

Unlawful content downloads have dropped from 23 per cent in November of 2014 to 17 per cent in July of 2015, said Erin Turner, campaign manager at Choice.

“Our research found the number of people using legal subscription and pay-per-view services has jumped from 46% to 59% in the last six months.

“The increase is directly related to the launch of Netflix in Australia and the emergence of a local streaming industry, with players such as Stan and Presto competing for customers and offering consumers real alternatives to piracy.”

Streamlining the availability of content is the most effective way to combat piracy, said Turner

“Unlawful downloading comes down to availability, timeliness and affordability.”

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